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Bridal Stories #2
Bridal Favors
Award-winning author Connie Brockway takes readers to the elegant drawing rooms and sprawling country estates of Victorian England in this captivating tale of a woman who must keep an irresistible nobleman’s most scandalous secret—without losing her heart.
Evelyn Whyte has never forgotten the night she first met Justin Powell—or the shocking indiscretion that left the raffish military hero eternally in her debt. Now, desperate to save her aunt’s foundering nuptial-planning enterprise, she’s ready for Justin to repay the favor. All she needs is his scenic ancestral home, where she’s determined to show the world that even a woman innocent in the ways of love can turn a simple wedding into the social event of the season.
Justin is happy to oblige, but his hospitality may place the wedding party in peril. Unaware of the daring double life he conceals behind a cloak of amiable gentility, Evie and her guests descend on North Cross Abbey. Pursued by enemy agents amid a whirl of festivities, Justin vows to keep Evie safe. But who will protect him from the charms of this alluring woman—and the promise of a matchless love worth any risk?
Evelyn Whyte has never forgotten the night she first met Justin Powell—or the shocking indiscretion that left the raffish military hero eternally in her debt. Now, desperate to save her aunt’s foundering nuptial-planning enterprise, she’s ready for Justin to repay the favor. All she needs is his scenic ancestral home, where she’s determined to show the world that even a woman innocent in the ways of love can turn a simple wedding into the social event of the season.
Justin is happy to oblige, but his hospitality may place the wedding party in peril. Unaware of the daring double life he conceals behind a cloak of amiable gentility, Evie and her guests descend on North Cross Abbey. Pursued by enemy agents amid a whirl of festivities, Justin vows to keep Evie safe. But who will protect him from the charms of this alluring woman—and the promise of a matchless love worth any risk?
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 1, 2002
36 people are currently reading
582 people want to read
About the author
Connie Brockway
61 books727 followersNew York Times and USAToday best selling author Connie Brockway has twice won the Romance Writers of America's Rita award for best historical romance as well as being an eight time finalist. After receiving a double major in art history and English from Macalester College, Connie entered grad school with an eye to acquiring her MFA in creative writing. Soon enough she jettisoned the idea of writing serious literature for what she considered (and still considers) the best gig in the world, writing romance.
Connie has received numerous starred reviews for her romances in Publisher's Weekly and Library Journal. Library Journal also named her Her 2004 romance, My Seduction, one of the year's top ten romances.
In November of 2011, THE OTHER GUY'S BRIDE (a sequel to the perennially popular AS YOU DESIRE) was Amazon's Montlake Publishing's launch title. Here next book, NO PLACE FOR A DAME will be published September, 2013. A regency set romance, it is also the sequel to ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT.Today Connie lives in Minnesota with her husband David, a family physician, and two spoiled mutts.
Connie has received numerous starred reviews for her romances in Publisher's Weekly and Library Journal. Library Journal also named her Her 2004 romance, My Seduction, one of the year's top ten romances.
In November of 2011, THE OTHER GUY'S BRIDE (a sequel to the perennially popular AS YOU DESIRE) was Amazon's Montlake Publishing's launch title. Here next book, NO PLACE FOR A DAME will be published September, 2013. A regency set romance, it is also the sequel to ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT.Today Connie lives in Minnesota with her husband David, a family physician, and two spoiled mutts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
September 22, 2016
What a fun little story. I read this with Andrea as a buddy read and in a rare moment, we both came away from the read happy! Yay!
Bridal Favors is the second book in Connie Brockway's Bridal Stories duo. It features Evelyn Cummings Whyte, who is trying to maintain her aunt's bridal planning business, and Justin Powell, a spy masquerading as a slightly vacuous man. The book opens with a touching scene between a young fifteen-year-old Evie and an adult, but still young, Powell. I LOVE when stories give me a glimpse of a characters' interaction when they are younger. Here, Brockway did a beautiful job of developing the characters and setting the stage for some of the preconceived notions that would color the characters' perspectives when they meet again as adults. For example, Evie assumes Powell is a womanizer (refreshingly, he is not) and Powell views Evie as his little "owlet" because of her small stature, dark hair, and inquisitiveness. This nickname stays throughout the novel and even has a few touching little inside jokes.
The characters come back together in adulthood because Evie wants to use Justin's crumbling manor to host a major society wedding that could redeem the wedding business she is running. Justin has been given a spy mission of his own and reluctantly agrees to let Evie use the place while he completes his business using all the wedding activities as a cover.
This book read quickly. Brockway has a distinctive storytelling style that is both quirky, roundabout, and fun to read. She captures small town characters beautifully and uses cute secondary characters to sometimes lend a different perspective on the leads. For instance, in this book, we had Justin's prickly, misogynistic butler who reluctantly likes Evie but gives her a hard time throughout the novel, and Evie's maid who is a free-spirited woman who collects men like postage stamps. Those two work to get Evie and Justin together and we sometimes got glimpses of what they were thinking.
Brockway's breezy style kept the spy theme from being anything too suspenseful or angsty and to be quite honest, the story probably would have been better without it. There were so many other fun elements that the rushed resolution to the spy thread was a bit convoluted and I'm still not quite sure everything was all worked out. Despite this one quibble, I thought the story was lovely. I wasn't emotionally invested because there was so much happening that I didn't feel like I knew Evie and Justin all that well, but this was still a solid 4.3 star read. It read quickly, there were some funny moments, and both leads were likable. Plus, the wine cellar scene---OH MAN. Super sexy :)
Overall, this was a delightful little story that I really enjoyed reading. It was light and fun and though there wasn't a lot of depth, it was unique enough to keep me smiling and reading. I'd highly recommend it to anyone who has been on run of duds...this one won't disappoint!
Bridal Favors is the second book in Connie Brockway's Bridal Stories duo. It features Evelyn Cummings Whyte, who is trying to maintain her aunt's bridal planning business, and Justin Powell, a spy masquerading as a slightly vacuous man. The book opens with a touching scene between a young fifteen-year-old Evie and an adult, but still young, Powell. I LOVE when stories give me a glimpse of a characters' interaction when they are younger. Here, Brockway did a beautiful job of developing the characters and setting the stage for some of the preconceived notions that would color the characters' perspectives when they meet again as adults. For example, Evie assumes Powell is a womanizer (refreshingly, he is not) and Powell views Evie as his little "owlet" because of her small stature, dark hair, and inquisitiveness. This nickname stays throughout the novel and even has a few touching little inside jokes.
The characters come back together in adulthood because Evie wants to use Justin's crumbling manor to host a major society wedding that could redeem the wedding business she is running. Justin has been given a spy mission of his own and reluctantly agrees to let Evie use the place while he completes his business using all the wedding activities as a cover.
This book read quickly. Brockway has a distinctive storytelling style that is both quirky, roundabout, and fun to read. She captures small town characters beautifully and uses cute secondary characters to sometimes lend a different perspective on the leads. For instance, in this book, we had Justin's prickly, misogynistic butler who reluctantly likes Evie but gives her a hard time throughout the novel, and Evie's maid who is a free-spirited woman who collects men like postage stamps. Those two work to get Evie and Justin together and we sometimes got glimpses of what they were thinking.
Brockway's breezy style kept the spy theme from being anything too suspenseful or angsty and to be quite honest, the story probably would have been better without it. There were so many other fun elements that the rushed resolution to the spy thread was a bit convoluted and I'm still not quite sure everything was all worked out. Despite this one quibble, I thought the story was lovely. I wasn't emotionally invested because there was so much happening that I didn't feel like I knew Evie and Justin all that well, but this was still a solid 4.3 star read. It read quickly, there were some funny moments, and both leads were likable. Plus, the wine cellar scene---OH MAN. Super sexy :)
Overall, this was a delightful little story that I really enjoyed reading. It was light and fun and though there wasn't a lot of depth, it was unique enough to keep me smiling and reading. I'd highly recommend it to anyone who has been on run of duds...this one won't disappoint!
January 8, 2017
This was delightful from beginning to end. After extensive reading in the genre, I have learned that my perfect HR includes witty banter, some sort of action, adventure, or mystery, and smart, capable, likeable MC's. This book ticked off all of my boxes.
Evie is a very smart and determined woman who is insecure about her looks, having grown up in the shadow of a beautiful mother and sister that she doesn't resemble. She developed intelligence, competence, and drive as a result, and hides her unique beauty that she can't recognize under dowdy clothes and spectacles she doesn't even really need. Justin is a British spy that has everyone convinced he's just a silly dilettante who used to chase women and now devotes his time to watching birds. The two of them meet when Evie is an awkward teenager, and Justin ends up in her debt. Ten years later, Evie comes to collect upon it, needing to let his estate for a bride for whom she is planning a wedding reception.
I loved the interactions between Evie and Justin- there were lots of fun, witty moments. Justin being jealous of a rival suitor of Evie's was a nice touch, as was Beverly and Merry plotting behind the scenes to bring the two of them together. I thought the pacing was very well done, with events happening mostly over the course of several weeks, allowing the MC's to actually spend time around each other and get to know each other. The espionage element was fun, and while maybe a bit improbable and slightly silly, lent something extra to this outside the norm of a typical HR. I think action and suspense are a great device to help throw a pair of characters together.
What I think I liked the most about this was the fact that the characters brought out the best in each other and helped each other realize their full potential and worth. I liked the relatable realism in Evie being insecure about her looks and finding confidence when someone cared about her- but for all of her attributes, not just what she looked like. I liked how they could see through each other in a way no one else could- Evie figuring out Justin was a spy and Justin figuring out that Evie was hiding herself and needed to be able to shine. There is a lot of lightness to this book, with a touch of swoon...Justin has some great lines (and the whole "Owlet"/Bubo thing was just adorable). I just love reading a book where I truly like all of the characters and don't feel like I have to overlook anything in order to enjoy the story. I would put this up with As You Desire as examples of CB's best work. I am really glad I bought this one, because I could definitely see myself reading it again someday. If you like HR and haven't read this, I would absolutely recommend it.
Evie is a very smart and determined woman who is insecure about her looks, having grown up in the shadow of a beautiful mother and sister that she doesn't resemble. She developed intelligence, competence, and drive as a result, and hides her unique beauty that she can't recognize under dowdy clothes and spectacles she doesn't even really need. Justin is a British spy that has everyone convinced he's just a silly dilettante who used to chase women and now devotes his time to watching birds. The two of them meet when Evie is an awkward teenager, and Justin ends up in her debt. Ten years later, Evie comes to collect upon it, needing to let his estate for a bride for whom she is planning a wedding reception.
I loved the interactions between Evie and Justin- there were lots of fun, witty moments. Justin being jealous of a rival suitor of Evie's was a nice touch, as was Beverly and Merry plotting behind the scenes to bring the two of them together. I thought the pacing was very well done, with events happening mostly over the course of several weeks, allowing the MC's to actually spend time around each other and get to know each other. The espionage element was fun, and while maybe a bit improbable and slightly silly, lent something extra to this outside the norm of a typical HR. I think action and suspense are a great device to help throw a pair of characters together.
What I think I liked the most about this was the fact that the characters brought out the best in each other and helped each other realize their full potential and worth. I liked the relatable realism in Evie being insecure about her looks and finding confidence when someone cared about her- but for all of her attributes, not just what she looked like. I liked how they could see through each other in a way no one else could- Evie figuring out Justin was a spy and Justin figuring out that Evie was hiding herself and needed to be able to shine. There is a lot of lightness to this book, with a touch of swoon...Justin has some great lines (and the whole "Owlet"/Bubo thing was just adorable). I just love reading a book where I truly like all of the characters and don't feel like I have to overlook anything in order to enjoy the story. I would put this up with As You Desire as examples of CB's best work. I am really glad I bought this one, because I could definitely see myself reading it again someday. If you like HR and haven't read this, I would absolutely recommend it.
October 6, 2016
Buddy read with Becca! And FINALLY we picked a winner! This book was just the right amount of hilarious and heart-breaking, very hard to put down, and everything you could want from a fun historical romance. I don't know why it took me this long to give Connie Brockway's books a chance, but I definitely plan on reading more by her!
November 16, 2009
One of the funniest books I've read in a while, and I'm a tough sell. The characters were surprisingly deep, relatable, and actually witty, instead of the author just insisting that they were. The book isn't an in depth read but perfect if you want something light and genuinely clever and interesting.
November 16, 2020
Evelyn (Evie) and Justin It goes to show how words can hurt a person. Evelyn thinks of herself as a golem because of hearing someone call her that as a teenager.
My favorite parts of this story is when the hero calls her "owlet" and the interactions between them.
Special note: This was a nominated as a marriage of convince trope for the Historical Romance Book Club (January 2020 Marriage of Convenience). It is a good thing it did not win because these two are still not married at the end of the story. Their HEA ending is- they are in love and planning on marriage.
My favorite parts of this story is when the hero calls her "owlet" and the interactions between them.
Special note: This was a nominated as a marriage of convince trope for the Historical Romance Book Club (January 2020 Marriage of Convenience). It is a good thing it did not win because these two are still not married at the end of the story. Their HEA ending is- they are in love and planning on marriage.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2015
What a wonderful book! The romance between Evelyn Whyte and Justin Powell is a sweet and tender one, and it's bound up in a grand farce that's very often laugh-out-loud funny. The dialogue in this novel is clever and perfectly timed, and the story is an implausible, hilarious delight. If you haven't read this book yet, you really should.
August 28, 2020
I enjoyed this story, liked the humour between H&H.
August 4, 2014
Evelyn Cummings Whyte needs the North Cross Abbey to host the Wedding of the Season to save her Aunt's business. Justin Powell needs a good reason to have a lot of hullabaloo happening at North Cross Abbey to keep his Spying on the DL. FEELINGS. BANTER. LOVE. ROLL CREDITS.
This book had so many things to it that could have ruined it for me: a spy subplot! An ugly-duckling heroine! A lack of communication between the leads! The whole over-planned wedding thing!
But, overall, all of those various elements were handled well. As much as I cannot stand the "heroine is secretly A TOTAL KNOCKOUT IN DISGUISE" arc, I thought that Evelyn's lack of self-confidence was well drawn and interesting. I was absolutely bored silly by the makeover "plot twist" but I do understand that it's a trope and there's not a lot to be done about it. I just wish that a heroine could find love without needing to also get her hair did--sometimes a fresh coat of paint doesn't really work, you know?
This book had so many things to it that could have ruined it for me: a spy subplot! An ugly-duckling heroine! A lack of communication between the leads! The whole over-planned wedding thing!
But, overall, all of those various elements were handled well. As much as I cannot stand the "heroine is secretly A TOTAL KNOCKOUT IN DISGUISE" arc, I thought that Evelyn's lack of self-confidence was well drawn and interesting. I was absolutely bored silly by the makeover "plot twist" but I do understand that it's a trope and there's not a lot to be done about it. I just wish that a heroine could find love without needing to also get her hair did--sometimes a fresh coat of paint doesn't really work, you know?
April 26, 2015
3.5 stars
It was a fun and witty read. Likable hero and heroin. But it feels like too frothy and candylike for a spy-based story. At the beginning, it was believable enough, but towards the end, it feels rushed and quite out of hand. Nothing dramatic (except for the chasing), the revealing of the enemy spy that they were searching for was...just like that. I was like...really? As easy as that?? And there were some confusing facts which confused me (haha) throughout the book.
It was a fun and witty read. Likable hero and heroin. But it feels like too frothy and candylike for a spy-based story. At the beginning, it was believable enough, but towards the end, it feels rushed and quite out of hand. Nothing dramatic (except for the chasing), the revealing of the enemy spy that they were searching for was...just like that. I was like...really? As easy as that?? And there were some confusing facts which confused me (haha) throughout the book.
October 1, 2021
What a loveable goofy story written in a contemporary-historical vein. I find as I become older, this trope either works for me or it doesn't.
The spirit of the MCs held the opposites-attract theme. There was some light suspense with some nonsensical moments, but what I enjoyed most was the banter between Justin and 'Evie'. At first I thought Justin was much older but I eventually learned there was just a five year age gap between the two people. Their amusing dialog and strong intellect worked in their favor.
If you are a fan of Ms. Brockway and haven't read this romance, please do.
The spirit of the MCs held the opposites-attract theme. There was some light suspense with some nonsensical moments, but what I enjoyed most was the banter between Justin and 'Evie'. At first I thought Justin was much older but I eventually learned there was just a five year age gap between the two people. Their amusing dialog and strong intellect worked in their favor.
If you are a fan of Ms. Brockway and haven't read this romance, please do.
November 24, 2013
I love this book! It is just so funny and filled with such wonderful dialogue. For example:
“There,” he said with satisfaction. “Now I recognize you. Evie, that is you, isn’t it? But what is this you’re
wearing? Is it a dress?”
She blinked. “Why, yes.”
“Should have stuck with the knickers.”
“You find something wrong with my dress?” she asked, wide-eyed.
“No, not a thing,” he said. “I just thought you utterly fetching in the knickers is all. Perverse, ain’t it?
What is that color, anyway? Puce?”
“I don’t know,” she replied. “It just seemed like a good, serviceable shade. One that wouldn’t show
dirt.”
“Being the color of dirt, you mean.”
“I guess so.”
The banter between Evie and Justin is marvelous.
“There,” he said with satisfaction. “Now I recognize you. Evie, that is you, isn’t it? But what is this you’re
wearing? Is it a dress?”
She blinked. “Why, yes.”
“Should have stuck with the knickers.”
“You find something wrong with my dress?” she asked, wide-eyed.
“No, not a thing,” he said. “I just thought you utterly fetching in the knickers is all. Perverse, ain’t it?
What is that color, anyway? Puce?”
“I don’t know,” she replied. “It just seemed like a good, serviceable shade. One that wouldn’t show
dirt.”
“Being the color of dirt, you mean.”
“I guess so.”
The banter between Evie and Justin is marvelous.
October 22, 2017
LOVED it!Heroine was awesome.
November 18, 2025
The main characters in this story were so cute! And the banter top-notch! The plot somewhat dragged on towards the end though but I’m willing to disregard that.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
November 3, 2016
Ahn. It was borderline 2 or barely grasping a 3. I WANTED to enjoy this book. There was just a lot missing.
I know myself, I know that espionage is not for me. I've known this after reading a couple books and not liking them. This book was no different.
Oh and as an American, I can spot some American shit in a quickness. Trust me. This was AMERICAN AS SHIT. When I say that I don't mean its based in America. It's not. It's location is in England. But they spoke like Americans. I've never heard a British person, especially in this time use some of the lingo used, or the word "aint", so it just came off odd.
There's a slight love triangle in here much to my annoyance. He even kisses the Heroine, so be aware.
Honestly to me there was a connection between the characters, but not enough scenes enacting on those attraction. There were too many scenes about the wedding and the espionage that got real old quick.
The heroine, Evie, she was an oddball. I didn't see the need for the low self-esteem portion, but okay. Her sister was mentioned a couple times but we never got to meet her. Evie was a rambler, weirdo, and a perfectionist. I was okay with her character. EXCEPT, the over naivety, and I don't mean in the way of innocence, I mean in the way of being oblivious to OBVIOUS jealousy that our hero was showing. And mistaking compliments for insults.
Our Hero, he was an oddball too. For a spy he had a refreshing weirdo quality about him. He talked in circles, rambled, and was genuinely happy go lucky. He didn't have this whole tragic backstory making him cold and distrusting, which was a nice change. I also loved that once he started kissing the heroine, he couldn't get enough. What irritated me about him is that he waited so damn long to make a move. Oh and he didn't have to roast her wedding like that lmao. Oh and he's not a manwhore (although the heroine accidentally thinks so). So that was different.
I wanted to enjoy this book more. The characters were interesting enough, but I wanted more interaction that would make me believe that they're in love with each other.
Oh and that hissyfit she threw when the hero fell from the tree during her kiss with the other guy. I sideeyed the entire page. Random "AH!''s and she started walking. It was random and weird and out of character. And honestly it pisses me off more that I think on it.
Quotes:
He winked and let go of her before bending down and casually slapping the leaves and bits of grass from her skirt.
She went still as stone, astounded.
Finished, he came round the front and studied the effect of his endeavors. He put his hand under her chin and titled her head this way and that.
"Something's different," he murmured. "Something's not..."
"Ha! I'm afraid this time you've outmatched your own vanity, Justin." She sniffed. "Why, you probably think every woman you meet dreams about you."
"His expression grew interested. "Do you? Did you?"
"No!"
He smiled lazily. "Liar."
She slid one foot forward. "Then," she said hesitantly, her eyes never leaving his face, "can we do those things again?"
"No."
"Please?"
"God." He struggled.
"Is that still a no?"
He lost.
I LOOOOVED the scene where they were in the wine cellar. SO CUTE.
"Evie," he said in a low, harsh voice. "I'd commit hideous crimes for your touch."
I know myself, I know that espionage is not for me. I've known this after reading a couple books and not liking them. This book was no different.
Oh and as an American, I can spot some American shit in a quickness. Trust me. This was AMERICAN AS SHIT. When I say that I don't mean its based in America. It's not. It's location is in England. But they spoke like Americans. I've never heard a British person, especially in this time use some of the lingo used, or the word "aint", so it just came off odd.
There's a slight love triangle in here much to my annoyance. He even kisses the Heroine, so be aware.
Honestly to me there was a connection between the characters, but not enough scenes enacting on those attraction. There were too many scenes about the wedding and the espionage that got real old quick.
The heroine, Evie, she was an oddball. I didn't see the need for the low self-esteem portion, but okay. Her sister was mentioned a couple times but we never got to meet her. Evie was a rambler, weirdo, and a perfectionist. I was okay with her character. EXCEPT, the over naivety, and I don't mean in the way of innocence, I mean in the way of being oblivious to OBVIOUS jealousy that our hero was showing. And mistaking compliments for insults.
Our Hero, he was an oddball too. For a spy he had a refreshing weirdo quality about him. He talked in circles, rambled, and was genuinely happy go lucky. He didn't have this whole tragic backstory making him cold and distrusting, which was a nice change. I also loved that once he started kissing the heroine, he couldn't get enough. What irritated me about him is that he waited so damn long to make a move. Oh and he didn't have to roast her wedding like that lmao. Oh and he's not a manwhore (although the heroine accidentally thinks so). So that was different.
I wanted to enjoy this book more. The characters were interesting enough, but I wanted more interaction that would make me believe that they're in love with each other.
Oh and that hissyfit she threw when the hero fell from the tree during her kiss with the other guy. I sideeyed the entire page. Random "AH!''s and she started walking. It was random and weird and out of character. And honestly it pisses me off more that I think on it.
Quotes:
He winked and let go of her before bending down and casually slapping the leaves and bits of grass from her skirt.
She went still as stone, astounded.
Finished, he came round the front and studied the effect of his endeavors. He put his hand under her chin and titled her head this way and that.
"Something's different," he murmured. "Something's not..."
"Ha! I'm afraid this time you've outmatched your own vanity, Justin." She sniffed. "Why, you probably think every woman you meet dreams about you."
"His expression grew interested. "Do you? Did you?"
"No!"
He smiled lazily. "Liar."
She slid one foot forward. "Then," she said hesitantly, her eyes never leaving his face, "can we do those things again?"
"No."
"Please?"
"God." He struggled.
"Is that still a no?"
He lost.
I LOOOOVED the scene where they were in the wine cellar. SO CUTE.
"Evie," he said in a low, harsh voice. "I'd commit hideous crimes for your touch."
March 14, 2017
Evie is the stereotypical spinster heroine who you often find lurking in historical romances. Who, for some unexplained reason, has the idea that she's the ugliest creature ever to grace the planet and of course this is completely wrong, she just dresses in butt ugly clothes. Despite the emo moments Evie has about being ugly and therefore unlovable I couldn't help but really like her. She's quick witted and very intelligent and for some reason I enjoyed how determined she was to prove herself as a useful person. Because of her need to constantly prove herself, Evie has taken on her aunt's wedding business since her aunt has decided to elope. But, in order to complete her latest clients wishes for a wedding at a certain abbey Evie has to cash in her favor from Justin Powell.
Justin is a fantastic character, he had a very Scarlet Pimpernel feel to him that I just adored. Justin is a spy for the government and so hides his competency behind a kind of obtuse/eccentric demeanor. Justin agrees to let Evie have her clients wedding at his abbey because he sees it as the best cover to complete his latest mission. Honestly, when I started this story I thought the mission/mystery of who the enemy spy is would be the part of the book that I disliked the most. I don't usually like when light romances try adding in some kind of mystery because it usually only falls flat or seems unfinished and that makes the mystery reader in me cringe. But Brockway managed to avoid this and even manages to avoid falling into the trap of letting the enemy of the story be some kind of cartoon evil villain. But this book isn't really about Justin's being a spy, that's more of just a subplot to Evie and Justin's developing friendship and eventual romance.
Justin is a fantastic character, he had a very Scarlet Pimpernel feel to him that I just adored. Justin is a spy for the government and so hides his competency behind a kind of obtuse/eccentric demeanor. Justin agrees to let Evie have her clients wedding at his abbey because he sees it as the best cover to complete his latest mission. Honestly, when I started this story I thought the mission/mystery of who the enemy spy is would be the part of the book that I disliked the most. I don't usually like when light romances try adding in some kind of mystery because it usually only falls flat or seems unfinished and that makes the mystery reader in me cringe. But Brockway managed to avoid this and even manages to avoid falling into the trap of letting the enemy of the story be some kind of cartoon evil villain. But this book isn't really about Justin's being a spy, that's more of just a subplot to Evie and Justin's developing friendship and eventual romance.
June 1, 2014
I like a humorous romance every now and then. And this book was humor in spades!
I loved Evelyn "Evie" and Justin. Evie is so convinced that she is a golem, that she becomes an overachiever to compensate for her supposed ugliness. She thinks since she isn't pretty that being accomplished will make up for the lack to the man she marries. She has taken over her Aunt's wedding planning business and has been a total failure. When the opportunity arises to redeem herself she calls in a decade old favor to Justin Powell to host the wedding at his country estate.
Ten years ago she caught Justin In what she thought was a compromising position at her sister's coming out house party. To keep her quiet, Justin let's her believe what she wants and promises her a future favor for her silence.
From the very beginning, you feel the chemistry between these two. Their banter is at times laugh out loud funny. And while Evie's belief that she is a golem never really changes - she doesn't harp on it and doesn't feel sorry for herself. She is a vertigo! The wedding reception scene is priceless!!
While this book was a "spy" story - it was more Austin Powers than James Bond. The romance was subtle, but never in doubt. It wasn't as steamy as other books I have read by Ms. Brockway, but this story didn't suffer from the lack.
While this is book two in the Bridal Favors series - it is totally stand alone. The characters from the first book are not even mentioned in this book (other than the still missing Aunt Agatha).
My only complaint - no epilogue - I wanted more! I wanted to know what happened with Evie and Justin - at the very least see them marry!!
I loved Evelyn "Evie" and Justin. Evie is so convinced that she is a golem, that she becomes an overachiever to compensate for her supposed ugliness. She thinks since she isn't pretty that being accomplished will make up for the lack to the man she marries. She has taken over her Aunt's wedding planning business and has been a total failure. When the opportunity arises to redeem herself she calls in a decade old favor to Justin Powell to host the wedding at his country estate.
Ten years ago she caught Justin In what she thought was a compromising position at her sister's coming out house party. To keep her quiet, Justin let's her believe what she wants and promises her a future favor for her silence.
From the very beginning, you feel the chemistry between these two. Their banter is at times laugh out loud funny. And while Evie's belief that she is a golem never really changes - she doesn't harp on it and doesn't feel sorry for herself. She is a vertigo! The wedding reception scene is priceless!!
While this book was a "spy" story - it was more Austin Powers than James Bond. The romance was subtle, but never in doubt. It wasn't as steamy as other books I have read by Ms. Brockway, but this story didn't suffer from the lack.
While this is book two in the Bridal Favors series - it is totally stand alone. The characters from the first book are not even mentioned in this book (other than the still missing Aunt Agatha).
My only complaint - no epilogue - I wanted more! I wanted to know what happened with Evie and Justin - at the very least see them marry!!
December 15, 2012
Alright my good friends, the time for brutal honesty is at hand.
I am an addict,as we have actually discussed some, and its been weeks since I finished with Thomas Merton. I was joensing for something IN ENGLISH to read.
This was the ONLY book available, and at first, I scoffed, I snickered,(the cover alone was offputting,a girly romance,for heavens sake) and then I grabbed it! To my astonishement,or maybe depravity, I found it not only engaging and credable, but it managed to touch on a couple of sensitive issues in my life. It wasnt just the plot twists, or even the ugly duckling turns to swan. Those were fairly predictable. It was the notion of a golem, and the sentence
"and what becomes of a proud golem? It lives alone and dies" p216 got me where it counts.
What we do, for love, for pride,´the person we know ourselves to be if we can only find the courage and honesty and strength to become that person´ is an important issue, and I have learned some important lessons from this book,which I devoured in less than a day. Maybe being halted so near to the finish of my Camino, by food poisoning and needing so desperately something to take my mind off of my stomache allowed me to lay aside all my judmental preferences,but I am glad I read this...and wondering if perhaps there will be a sequal?
I am an addict,as we have actually discussed some, and its been weeks since I finished with Thomas Merton. I was joensing for something IN ENGLISH to read.
This was the ONLY book available, and at first, I scoffed, I snickered,(the cover alone was offputting,a girly romance,for heavens sake) and then I grabbed it! To my astonishement,or maybe depravity, I found it not only engaging and credable, but it managed to touch on a couple of sensitive issues in my life. It wasnt just the plot twists, or even the ugly duckling turns to swan. Those were fairly predictable. It was the notion of a golem, and the sentence
"and what becomes of a proud golem? It lives alone and dies" p216 got me where it counts.
What we do, for love, for pride,´the person we know ourselves to be if we can only find the courage and honesty and strength to become that person´ is an important issue, and I have learned some important lessons from this book,which I devoured in less than a day. Maybe being halted so near to the finish of my Camino, by food poisoning and needing so desperately something to take my mind off of my stomache allowed me to lay aside all my judmental preferences,but I am glad I read this...and wondering if perhaps there will be a sequal?
August 15, 2021
Hoooow did I get through life without reading every book by this author? Admittedly I'm still very new to her books, but I'm enjoying them immensely so far.
I love when the hero actually likes the heroine, you know? Plus when he's just a dude who is attractive but still awkward sometimes and unsure and not like, a Rake™. Also when he actually tries. Also when he pretends to be a foolish eccentric and meanwhile he's actually a spy (gasp!).
(Side note: The whole spy/wedding planning thing was mostly just a convenient plot excuse to force some conflict sometimes, and not the focus of much of the book)
I also really liked the heroine. It's not the best start to a romance when your hero finds you bleeding on his floor after you broke into his house, but she made it work. I was charmed by her from the beginning, though the whole 'I'm ugly and nobody will love me so instead I shall be Practical and Competent' thing got a bit irritating when clearly there were two whole bros romantically interested in her in the book. But also she's believed it for literal ever so I'll forgive her for not immediately getting that the hero likes her.
Anyway, this was a sweet book and I totally see myself comfort-rereading it in the future.
I love when the hero actually likes the heroine, you know? Plus when he's just a dude who is attractive but still awkward sometimes and unsure and not like, a Rake™. Also when he actually tries. Also when he pretends to be a foolish eccentric and meanwhile he's actually a spy (gasp!).
(Side note: The whole spy/wedding planning thing was mostly just a convenient plot excuse to force some conflict sometimes, and not the focus of much of the book)
I also really liked the heroine. It's not the best start to a romance when your hero finds you bleeding on his floor after you broke into his house, but she made it work. I was charmed by her from the beginning, though the whole 'I'm ugly and nobody will love me so instead I shall be Practical and Competent' thing got a bit irritating when clearly there were two whole bros romantically interested in her in the book. But also she's believed it for literal ever so I'll forgive her for not immediately getting that the hero likes her.
Anyway, this was a sweet book and I totally see myself comfort-rereading it in the future.
November 8, 2010
" The aesthetics of the heart, my darling, surpass the senses and make its own perfection."
This was a sweet, romantic love story and happily ended with these tender words by justin Powell to his love Evie. Justin a spy acting as a ornologst meets Evie when she is 15 years old when she saves him from a terrible mistake and gives her an i owe you. Growing up as intelligent, charming but has a low self-esteem hiding behind glasses growing up identifying herself as a spinster- she turns in her iou. They develop a friendship that develops into love that goes beyond the superficial- very sweet and refreshing! The humor comes in the form of the merry dressmaker and chaperone who is a romantic french lady and has her own love affair with justin's affirmed bacholar assistant his "batman." Great dialogue and fun plot. Most of all I liked the idea that this ugly duckling realizes she is a swan on her own and the love story is about loving your self to receive love from others.
This was a sweet, romantic love story and happily ended with these tender words by justin Powell to his love Evie. Justin a spy acting as a ornologst meets Evie when she is 15 years old when she saves him from a terrible mistake and gives her an i owe you. Growing up as intelligent, charming but has a low self-esteem hiding behind glasses growing up identifying herself as a spinster- she turns in her iou. They develop a friendship that develops into love that goes beyond the superficial- very sweet and refreshing! The humor comes in the form of the merry dressmaker and chaperone who is a romantic french lady and has her own love affair with justin's affirmed bacholar assistant his "batman." Great dialogue and fun plot. Most of all I liked the idea that this ugly duckling realizes she is a swan on her own and the love story is about loving your self to receive love from others.
September 4, 2014
เรื่องนี้นางเอกเป็นหลานของอกาธาที่เป็นนักจัดงานแต่งงานในเล่มหนึ่ง ตอนเล่มแรกอกาธาหนีตามผู้ชายไปแต่งงาน ทำให้นางเอกเล่มแรกปลอมตัวเป็นอกาธาเข้าไปจัดงานแต่งงานแล้วได้เจอกับพระเอก ส่วนเล่มนี้ นางเอก อีวี่ จะเป็นหลานแล้วรับดูแลกิจการต่อจากอาของเธอ แต่งานที่ผ่านมาก็พังไม่เป็นชิ้นดี จนมาถึงงานล่าสุดที่เธอคิดว่าจะกู้ชื่อเสียงกลับคืนมาให้ได้ และเจ้าสาวต้องการคฤหาสน์ชนบทของจัสติน เป็นสถานที่จัดงาน ทำให้นางเอกแอบลอบเข้าไปหาพระเอกเพื่อขอให้พระเอกช่วย ก็เป็นจังหวะเหมาะที่พระเอกซึ่งทำงานเป็นสายลับต้องการขนสินค้าบางอย่าง การที่นางเอกเข้าไปใช้สถานที่ทำให้การขนสินค้าทำได้ง่ายขึ้น
น่ารักดี พระเอกทำตัวตลกดี ทำให้คนอื่นคิดว่าตัวเองเป็นคนไม่เอาไหน แต่ถึงยังไงนางเอกก็มองออกอยู่ดีว่าพระเอกเป็นผู้ชายแบบไหน แอบทำตัวว่าเป็นพวกชอบดูนก แล้วก็คิดชื่อนกขึ้นมาแปลกๆ แอบตามไปดูนางเอกตอนที่ไปปิคนิคกับผู้ชายคนอื่น แล้วหล่นตุบจากต้นไม้ลงมาขัดจังหวะตอนเขาจูบกันซะงั้น ตอนที่แม่นางเอกมาหานางเอกที่ห้องพระเอกเปิดออกมาเจอนี่ก็แถไปได้เรื่อยจริงๆ ตอนแรกนึกว่าจะยอมรับซะแล้วว่า....กันไปแล้ว เรื่องออกแนวขำๆน่ารักๆอ่า��สบายๆ
น่ารักดี พระเอกทำตัวตลกดี ทำให้คนอื่นคิดว่าตัวเองเป็นคนไม่เอาไหน แต่ถึงยังไงนางเอกก็มองออกอยู่ดีว่าพระเอกเป็นผู้ชายแบบไหน แอบทำตัวว่าเป็นพวกชอบดูนก แล้วก็คิดชื่อนกขึ้นมาแปลกๆ แอบตามไปดูนางเอกตอนที่ไปปิคนิคกับผู้ชายคนอื่น แล้วหล่นตุบจากต้นไม้ลงมาขัดจังหวะตอนเขาจูบกันซะงั้น ตอนที่แม่นางเอกมาหานางเอกที่ห้องพระเอกเปิดออกมาเจอนี่ก็แถไปได้เรื่อยจริงๆ ตอนแรกนึกว่าจะยอมรับซะแล้วว่า....กันไปแล้ว เรื่องออกแนวขำๆน่ารักๆอ่า��สบายๆ
June 10, 2019
Love at its Very Best, with Suspense and Silliness to Boot
I love this author’s novels. Her contemporaries are a hoot, demonstrating Connie Brockway’s love of Minnesota in all its glory. They read as if the very best bits of A Prairie Home Companion had been reworked to fit perfectly into the pages of a romance novel. Brockway’s nineteenth century romances are just as delightful. In this second Wedding Planner book, she creates a hero and heroine who together take on the world of espionage, all while engaging in ancient abbey renovation and planning an international ton wedding—and in the process shatter their own and other’s preconceptions about their respective roles in the world. They are a pair to remember, the owlet and the rake. Excellent writing and an abundance of humor make this a satisfying, heart-warming read.
I love this author’s novels. Her contemporaries are a hoot, demonstrating Connie Brockway’s love of Minnesota in all its glory. They read as if the very best bits of A Prairie Home Companion had been reworked to fit perfectly into the pages of a romance novel. Brockway’s nineteenth century romances are just as delightful. In this second Wedding Planner book, she creates a hero and heroine who together take on the world of espionage, all while engaging in ancient abbey renovation and planning an international ton wedding—and in the process shatter their own and other’s preconceptions about their respective roles in the world. They are a pair to remember, the owlet and the rake. Excellent writing and an abundance of humor make this a satisfying, heart-warming read.
January 7, 2012
This book is difficult to rate. It is not so much a romance novel as a love story. It is written quite well. It's witty and charming and interesting. The author is able to paint a very vivid picture and the story is very smooth for the reader. The characters in this story are not very distinct. I enjoyed the book, but I did not feel like I was reading about realistic people. The voice of the characters is all the same, it is the voice of the author. It is a sweet story, but it lacks depth. It is a romp. The problem with the book is the author's talent. She is quite brilliant in all ways except character development - which, of course, is vital to a great story. Would recommend, but not as a romance.
January 4, 2012
My only second book from Ms. Brockway. The first was the book before this called 'The Bridal Season' which has become one of my favorite romance books ever! And being a romance booklover this is saying a lot. So I was up for more delicious romance for book 2. I found it not as exciting or romantic than the first. Although I loved both Evelyn & Justin there was just something missing, maybe I kept comparing it to Book 1 having just finished it. But I'm still intrigued and excited by Ms. Brockway & cannot wait to read more of her works.
December 5, 2011
Bridal Favors was absolutely and utterly charming. The primary characters, Evie and Justin, are adorable and interesting. I loved how the two of them came together; they were a perfect fit. The book was also fun to read and left me happy, cheerful, and hopeful.
March 1, 2012
2.5 stars
I can't put my fingers on where this book fell short. Even though the book was well written, the combination of humor, an almost bluestocking spinster, wedding business, and espionage didn't work for me.
I can't put my fingers on where this book fell short. Even though the book was well written, the combination of humor, an almost bluestocking spinster, wedding business, and espionage didn't work for me.
Read
February 20, 2015This was a fun witty and intriguing book. The main characters are fun to watch as they are doing their best to keep the other at arms length. The secondary characters are just as much fun and make you laugh at loud with their sneakiness. Great book in the series.
April 24, 2015
คือก็งงเล็กน้อยนะ
งงว่าตอนไหนพระเอกแกล้งทำเป็นเพี้ยน หรือว่าเขาเพี้ยนจริงๆ
พล็อตสืบสวนเล็กๆ ที่มีก็ไม่ค่อยตื่นเต้นเร้าใจ
แต่ชอบมากตอนที่พระเอกแถไปได้เรื่อย
อย่างการตั้งชื่อนกที่ตัวเอง(โม้ว่า)ค้นพบนี่ก็น่ารักมาเลย
3.5 ดาวค่ะ
งงว่าตอนไหนพระเอกแกล้งทำเป็นเพี้ยน หรือว่าเขาเพี้ยนจริงๆ
พล็อตสืบสวนเล็กๆ ที่มีก็ไม่ค่อยตื่นเต้นเร้าใจ
แต่ชอบมากตอนที่พระเอกแถไปได้เรื่อย
อย่างการตั้งชื่อนกที่ตัวเอง(โม้ว่า)ค้นพบนี่ก็น่ารักมาเลย
3.5 ดาวค่ะ
July 23, 2016
Brilliant! Absolutely loved Ms. Brockway's writing. Witty and intelligent, the characters will draw you in and take you back in time. Thoroughly enjoyed Bridal Favors and will definitely find the rest of this series.
August 15, 2016
I was in the mood for a clever/humorous historical romance stories and Connie Brockway delivered the goods. My feeling is that "Bridal Favors" is in the 95 percentile of my favorite historical romance books. It is a pleasure to give it 5 stars.
April 10, 2010
Light fluff, fun heroine and hero. Enjoyable read. Book currently in mallorca.
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